As a child I always wanted my own robot.
Back then robots were mostly science fiction.
Any operational robots at that time performed tasks in factories, and cost more than most Americans could afford.
These days an Internet search reveals various kinds of robots, many that can perform chores people are willing to pass on to a motorized friend.
Roombas have become household names with their ability to sweep a floor automatically.
I have considered buying one of those seemingly useful pieces of technology, but can’t get past the $400 to $600 price tag.
But there is one automated device I would love to add to my home, the automatic litter box.
The most recent iteration is called the CatGenie and looks to solve all of my cat ownership troubles.
But I have been burned before by the Littermaid.
Other robots on the market have a less than practical application.
The other day I perused an electronics store and found a robotic Raptor for sale.
Not only was it gigantic, for a toy robot anyway, it promised hours of enjoyment as I use it to provide the feline occupants of the household with a bit of exercise.
It comes with a remote control for manual operation and has an automated feature.
But when it comes down to it, I would end up using it for a day or two at most and then $70 would be collecting dust in the closet.
Automated machines are touted to one day display human emotion, and possibly help with everyday tasks.
If robots are sweeping our floors and cleaning up after our pets, hopefully someone will soon invent a robot that will clean out a refrigerator